Hi Pucca
The SEN COP makes it very clear that LAs must take into account the views of parents when considering statutory assessment.
"7:16 Before deciding whether to make an assessment the LEA must issue a notice under
section 323(1) or 329A(3) of the Education Act 1996. The LEA:
v. must tell parents of their right to submit written evidence and make oral
representations as to why they believe their child should or should not be assessed.
The LEA must set a time limit for receipt of parental views, which must not be less
than 29 days
vi. should encourage parents to respond and submit evidence, pointing out the
importance of their contribution. When parents make oral representations, the LEA
should agree a written summary with the parents. The LEA may invite parents to
indicate formally if they do not wish to make or add to previous representations, in
order that the LEA can then immediately start to consider whether a statutory
assessment is necessary"
It also makes it very clear that LAs must take very seriously the views of the parents when deciding whether to issue a statement.
"7:74 After deciding to make a statutory assessment the LEA must seek parental, educational,
medical, psychological and social services advice. They must also seek any other advice
they consider appropriate53 and, where reasonable, should consult those whom the
parents have named. They should do so immediately and should ask all concerned to
respond within six weeks."
So, in effect, they must ask your opinion twice. However, the importance of the two documents are slightly different.
The first document is often titled "Parental views", and it is inviting you to say whether you think your child needs an assessment. It also allows you to give your views on their SEN, what has worked or not, etc. It is important in the sense that it will form part of the evidence needed to jump the 'needs to be assessed' hurdle.
The second document, this one, is titled "Parental Advice". This document is crucial for a number of reasons:
- It will form 'Appendix A: Parental Advice' in any eventual statement.
Appendices B-F will be medical, social services, OT, Ed Psych, Physio, etc.
-
Anyone and everyone who needs to see your child's statement will be able to read it. If you have been dissatisfied with a service and write it frankly, they will see it .
-
It is your chance to influence the LA in terms of placement.
My advice? DO NOT use their form. You don't have to stick to their little boxes. Do a nice word document, using their headings, but allowing you as much space as you need for each section.
Do shout if you need help or want to see any examples. I know a few of us have shared our Parental Advice on occasion. It can be helpful to see what other people did.